U.S. patent application number 09/846622 was filed with the patent office on 2001-09-20 for product sampler.
Invention is credited to DeSchryver, David, Donahue, Patrick, Katz, Robert E., Tararuj, Christopher, Weiser, Robert.
Application Number | 20010023017 09/846622 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22118641 |
Filed Date | 2001-09-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010023017 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tararuj, Christopher ; et
al. |
September 20, 2001 |
Product sampler
Abstract
A product sampler including a substrate layer, a barrier layer
covering the substrate layer, a gelatinoid product layer covering
and in contact with the barrier layer, and a barrier layer covering
and in contact with the product layer is provided. The gelatinoid
product layer may include a microencapsulated product, such as a
fragrance. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the
gelatinoid product layer includes a microencapsulated fragrance
carried in a gelatinoid liquid vehicle, which vehicle may comprise,
for example, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycols, glycerin, or
mixtures thereof. In a highly preferred embodiment of the
invention, the product sampler is in the form of a magazine insert
having a protruding trimmable non-barrier substrate tab portion,
whereby a user may remove a trim portion from the trimmable edge
portion after binding the insert into a magazine without removing
barrier material with the removed trim portion. Also disclosed is a
product sampler in the form of a label.
Inventors: |
Tararuj, Christopher;
(Hamilton, NJ) ; Donahue, Patrick; (Belle Mead,
NJ) ; Katz, Robert E.; (Short Hills, NJ) ;
DeSchryver, David; (East Brunswick, NJ) ; Weiser,
Robert; (Sea Bright, NJ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LEYDIG VOIT & MAYER, LTD
TWO PRUDENTIAL PLAZA, SUITE 4900
180 NORTH STETSON AVENUE
CHICAGO
IL
60601-6780
US
|
Family ID: |
22118641 |
Appl. No.: |
09/846622 |
Filed: |
May 1, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09846622 |
May 1, 2001 |
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09345911 |
Jul 1, 1999 |
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09345911 |
Jul 1, 1999 |
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PCT/US98/27344 |
Dec 22, 1998 |
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60074262 |
Feb 10, 1998 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
428/317.1 ;
264/4.1; 427/213.3; 428/402.21 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10S 428/905 20130101;
Y10T 428/24802 20150115; A61K 8/02 20130101; G09F 5/04 20130101;
Y10T 428/14 20150115; B32B 27/08 20130101; A61K 8/11 20130101; A61K
8/0208 20130101; Y10T 428/24264 20150115; A61Q 13/00 20130101; Y10T
156/1049 20150115; Y10T 428/249982 20150401; Y10T 428/2985
20150115; Y10T 428/1405 20150115; A45D 40/0087 20130101; A61K
2800/412 20130101; Y10T 156/1093 20150115; Y10T 156/1051 20150115;
A45D 34/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
428/317.1 ;
428/402.21; 427/213.3; 264/4.1 |
International
Class: |
B01J 013/02; B01J
013/04; B32B 007/12; B32B 027/00; B32B 027/02 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method for preparing a product sampler, comprising the steps
of: providing a substrate; placing a first layer of a barrier
material over at least a portion of said substrate to form a
substrate-barrier laminate; placing an amount of a gelatinoid
sampler product over at least a portion of said layer of barrier
material; and covering said sampler product with a second layer of
a barrier material.
2. A method according to claim 1, wherein said first and second
layers of barrier material comprise portions of a single sheet of
barrier material, wherein said step of covering said product with a
layer of barrier material comprises folding said substrate-barrier
laminate over itself such that said product is contained in a fold
defined by said single sheet of barrier material.
3. A method according to claim 1, said method including the step of
applying a repositionable adhesive over a portion of said first
layer of barrier material, whereby said second layer of barrier
material becomes adhesively secured to said first layer of barrier
material upon covering of said sampler product with said second
layer.
4. A product sampler comprising: a substrate; a first layer of a
barrier material covering at least a portion of said substrate; a
gelatinoid product layer covering at least a portion of said
barrier layer and in contact with said barrier layer; and a second
layer of a barrier material covering said product layer and in
contact with said product layer.
5. A product sampler according to claim 4, said first and second
layers of barrier material comprising discrete sheets of barrier
material.
6. A product sampler according to claim 4, said first and second
layers of barrier material comprising different portions of a
single sheet of barrier material.
7. A product sampler according to claim 4, said product comprising
a microencapsulated product carried in a product vehicle.
8. A product sampler according to claim 7, said microencapsulated
product comprising a fragrance oil.
9. A product sampler according to claim 7, said microencapsulated
product comprising a product contained within a cavity defined by a
wall material, said wall material being a material selected from
the group consisting of urea resins and melamine resins.
10. A product sampler according to claim 4, said product comprising
a gelatinoid emulsion.
11. A product sampler according to claim 4, said product comprising
a fragrance contained in a particulate product matrix, said matrix
being dispersed in a gelatinoid product vehicle.
12. A product sampler according to claim 11, said product matrix
comprising a polymeric particulate product matrix.
13. A product sampler according to claim 4, wherein said product
layer comprises a product carried in a gelatinoid vehicle, said
vehicle being selected from the group consisting of glycerin,
polyethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol monomethyl ether,
propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.
14. A product sampler according to claim 4, wherein said first
layer of barrier film is secured to said second layer of barrier
film with a repositionable adhesive.
15. A product sampler according to claim 4, wherein said first
layer of barrier material covers only a portion of said substrate
thus dividing said substrate into a barrier substrate region and a
non-barrier substrate region, wherein said substrate has a trim
edge and said barrier material extends to said trim edge to divide
said trim edge into a non-barrier trim edge and a non-barrier trim
edge portion, said non-barrier trim edge portion having a
protruding tab portion.
16. A product sampler according to claim 4, the sampler including a
second product layer, said gelatinoid product layer being a
microencapsulated product layer and said second product layer
including a non-encapsulated fragrance oil.
17. A product sampler according to claim 4, the sampler including a
second product layer, said second product layer comprising a
microencapsulated fragrance disposed in an adhesively secured
relationship with respect to said sampler whereby at least a
portion of the microcapsules in said second product layer rupture
upon initial opening of said sampler.
18. A product sampler according to claim 4, wherein said product
layer includes a particulate filler.
19. A product sampler according to claim 18, wherein said
particulate filler is a hydrophobically modified starch.
20. A product sampler comprising: a first layer of barrier film; a
gelatinoid product layer covering at least a portion of said first
layer of barrier film and contacting said first layer of barrier
film; and a second layer of barrier film covering said gelatinoid
product layer and contacting said gelatinoid product layer.
21. A product sampler according to claim 20, wherein said first
product layer is secured to said second product layer with a
repositionable adhesive.
22. A product sampler according to claim 20, wherein said first and
second layers of barrier material comprise portions of a single
sheet of barrier material, said first and second portions meeting
at a fold in said sheet of barrier material, said gelatinoid
product being disposed in a folded pocket defined by said first and
second portions.
23. A product sampler according to claim 20, the sampler including
a second product layer, said gelatinoid product layer being a
microencapsulated product layer and said second product layer
including a non-encapsulated fragrance oil.
24. A product sampler according to claim 20, the sampler including
a second product layer, said second product layer comprising a
microencapsulated fragrance disposed in an adhesively secured
relationship with respect to said sampler whereby at least a
portion of the microcapsules in said second product layer rupture
upon initial opening of said sampler.
25. A method for preparing a product sampler, comprising the steps
of: providing a substrate, said substrate having a trim edge;
placing a first layer of a barrier material over a portion of said
substrate to form a substrate-barrier laminate, said barrier
material dividing said substrate into a barrier substrate region
and a non-barrier substrate region, said barrier material extending
to said trim edge thus dividing said trim edge into a barrier trim
edge portion and a non-barrier trim edge portion; in any order: (1)
placing an amount of a sampler product over at least a portion of
said layer of barrier material, and covering said sampler product
with a second layer of a barrier material; and (2) removing a
portion of said substrate-barrier laminate at said barrier trim
edge thereby leaving a protruding non-barrier trim edge tab
portion.
Description
[0001] This application claims priority to prior provisional
application Ser. No. 60/074,262, filed Feb. 10, 1998, the content
of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates generally to a product sampler, and
more particularly to a product sampler that is capable of being
provided in the form of a handout, mailer, label, or bindable
magazine insert.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The prior art has provided numerous sampler devices for use
in connection with promotion of the sale of fragrances and other
products. Known samplers typically are inserted into magazines and
catalogs, are used as statement enclosures, or are handed out
individually by salespersons at retail establishments. Such
samplers typically are of a non-laminar construction and comprise
one sheet of a substrate, such as paper, which sheet is temporarily
bonded to itself with an adhesive. A microencapsulated fragrance
oil is disposed within the adhesive, such that the adhesive thus
both bonds the microcapsules to the substrate sheet and binds
together the interior faces of the substrate sheet. When a user
separates the sheets, some or all of the microcapsules rupture,
thereby releasing the fragrance contained therein for evaluation by
the user. A layer of a barrier material, such as a plastic or metal
foil, may be utilized to overwrap the sampler to prevent leakage of
the fragrance from the sampler.
[0004] One long-standing problem associated with known samplers is
their tendency to leak, that is, to prematurely emit the fragrance
intended to be delivered at a later time by the sampler. This
problem is known as the "preodor" problem. Preodor is particularly
troublesome for product samplers that are provided as magazine
inserts. Typically, such product samplers will be provided in the
form of a paper insert bound directly into the magazine. During the
manufacture, application, cutting and binding of the insert, some
of the microcapsules within the sampler can rupture, thus causing
premature release of the fragrance. Such premature leakage of the
fragrance can render the sampler less effective in delivering a
suitable dose of fragrance to the end user. Moreover, postal
regulations place limits on the levels of emissions of fragrance
from magazines and other articles that are sent through the mails.
Thus, if rules become further restrictive, magazine publishers may
be required to take special and expensive measures to prevent
leakage of fragrance from the insert, such as wrapping the entire
magazine with a barrier film material.
[0005] In recognition of these problems, the art has provided label
or pouch products that are designed to effectively address the
preodor issues. These products do not utilize a microencapsulated
fragrance oil. Instead, the fragrance is provided in the form of a
volatile oil carried in a volatile carrier to provide a "wearable"
product that a consumer can apply to the skin. Such label or pouch
products rely on a barrier film and an adhesive perimeter seal to
contain the volatile fragrance oil and volatile vehicle contained
therein. While the use of such a perimeter seal may be advantageous
in some cases, such products generally are costly to produce.
Moreover, the label or pouch generally must be secured to a
separate substrate before the label or pouch may be used as a
magazine insert or handout, and thus additional costly handling is
generally required.
[0006] Another problem in the art relates to the binding of
magazines containing product samplers. Magazine binderies sometimes
need to cut off a portion of the insert after it is bound into the
magazine, a step known as "taking a trim." Such a step is often
necessary to properly size or position the insert within the
magazine. Because of the need to take a trim, it can be difficult
and costly to utilize samplers that are of a laminar construction
composed of plural layers of discrete materials. If a product
sampler were to comprise a laminate of a substrate and a barrier
material, for example, a trim portion taken from the sampler would
comprise a laminate of the barrier material and the substrate
material. The removed barrier film in the trim portion would be
difficult to separate from the paper, and thus the trim portion
would be difficult to recycle and consequently more costly to
dispose of. For this reason, such laminar products are not
generally accepted at binderies.
[0007] Another problem with known samplers is that their utility
generally is limited to the delivery of microencapsulated products.
Such samplers generally are not cost effective for delivery of
other products, such as cosmetics, and particularly not products
such as wet or oil-based products or color cosmetics such as
lipsticks, rouges, blushes, foundations, and the like.
[0008] In light of the foregoing problems with known samplers,
there exists a need in the art for an inexpensive fragrance product
sampler that will not prematurely emit the fragrance contained
therein. A need exists for an economical fragrance sample capable
of delivering a product that can be applied to the skin. A further
need exists for a sampler that will maintain the integrity of other
products, in particular wet or oil-based products contained in the
sampler. Ideally, the sampler should be of simple construction,
such that it may be manufactured quickly and inexpensively. The
sampler further should be susceptible to processing and handling
without difficulty. A need further exists for a sampler having a
non-barrier trimmable substrate edge, such that a bindery may take
a trim portion from the sampler without removing barrier material
with the removed trim portion.
OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] It is a general object of the invention to provide a sampler
for fragrances and other products, the sampler having sufficient
barrier properties so as to prevent or substantially inhibit the
emission of volatile components such as odor components from the
sampler.
[0010] Another object is to provide a sampler that is suitable for
delivering products other than microencapsulated products, such
products including, for example, color cosmetic products. In
keeping with this object, the integrity of the product carried by
the sampler should not be compromised by incorporation or
absorption of the product or any components thereof into the
sampler substrate, such that a true product representation of
color, feel, texture, and/or fragrance can be achieved by
preventing migration of non-volatile components into the
substrate.
[0011] Another general object of the invention is to provide a
sampler having a non-barrier trimmable edge, whereby a bindery may
remove a trim portion from the sampler without removing barrier
material with the removed trim portion.
[0012] Another object is to provide a sampler that retains the
facility of opening of a conventional paper sampler but that has
the capability to deliver a usable liquid sample, and that further
has the advantage of being reclosable so as not to leave an
unsightly flap or label.
[0013] It is a further object of the invention to emulsify and
stabilize a fragrance oil in a non-volatile vehicle.
[0014] These objects have been achieved in one or more embodiments
of the present invention. In accordance with one embodiment of the
invention, the invention provides a product sampler that includes a
substrate layer, a barrier layer covering the substrate layer, a
gelatinoid product layer in contact with and covering the barrier
layer, and a barrier layer in contact with and covering the product
layer. The gelatinoid product layer may be applied to the barrier
layer without a separate adhesive layer, and may include a
microencapsulated product, such as a fragrance. Alternatively, the
gelatinoid product layer may include or comprise a product that is
not microencapsulated. A user may expose the gelatinoid product
layer by removing the covering barrier layer to expose the
gelatinoid product layer, and may thereby sample the product. A
repositionable adhesive may be used to allow for reclosability of
the sampler. In typical use, the user will remove only a portion of
the product in the gelatinoid product layer upon each use of the
sampler, thus allowing for plural uses of the sampler.
[0015] The use of a gelatinoid product layer in conjunction with
the sampler provides for numerous advantages. For example, the
gelatinoid nature of the product layer allows for a pleasing skin
feel. Because the product layer is disposed on the barrier layer,
and is not adhesively secured to the substrate layer, the sampler
is suitable for delivering not only fragrance products, but also
cosmetic products and other products. The barrier layer may be
placed on an interior surface of the substrate, and in contact with
the product layer, thus achieving an effective barrier function
without the need to connect the product layer to the substrate with
a separate adhesive.
[0016] In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, a
method for preparing a sampler is provided. The method includes the
steps of providing a substrate and placing a barrier layer over a
portion of the substrate to define plural substrate regions
including a barrier substrate region and a non-barrier substrate
region, and removing a portion of the barrier substrate region to
leave a trimmable substrate edge portion. When a sampler is
prepared according to the present inventive method, a trim portion
may be removed from the sampler without also removing the barrier
material from the sampler.
[0017] In accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention,
a product sampler in the form of a label is provided. The label
includes two layers of a substrate barrier material containing
therebetween a gelatinoid product layer. Because the substrate
material itself possesses barrier properties, no separate barrier
material is required.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] FIG. 1 is a plan view of one embodiment of the sampler of
the invention, showing the sampler in a closed position.
[0019] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the sampler shown in FIG. 1, shown
in an open position with the product layer exposed.
[0020] FIG. 3 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view taken
along line 3-3 in FIG. 1.
[0021] FIG. 4 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of
another embodiment of the sampler of the invention.
[0022] FIG. 5 is a plan view of an intermediate prepared during the
manufacturing of the sampler shown in FIG. 1.
[0023] FIG. 6 is a plan view of the intermediate shown in FIG. 5,
shown in a subsequent stage in the manufacturing process.
[0024] FIG. 7 is a plan view of another embodiment of the sampler
of the invention, shown in an open position with the product
exposed, the sampler constructed with a discontinuous application
of the barrier film to the substrate and further including an
alternative placement of the product layer.
[0025] FIG. 8 is a plan view of a sampler in the form of a label,
the label including two sheets of a substrate comprising a
polymeric material having sufficient barrier properties so as not
to require a separate barrier material, a portion of the top
substrate film being cut-away.
[0026] FIG. 9 is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of the
sampler shown in FIG. 8.
[0027] FIG. 10 is a plan view of another embodiment of the sampler
of the invention, the sampler including two products and shown in
an open position with the products exposed.
[0028] FIG. 11 is a plan view of another embodiment of the sampler
of the invention, shown in open position with the product
exposed.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] The sampler of the invention preferably takes the form of a
bindable magazine insert. Generally, the insert of the invention
comprises a laminate of a substrate material and a barrier
material, and further includes a product layer disposed within
layers of the barrier material. The substrate and barrier may be
made of known or conventional materials and assembled in a
conventional manner.
[0030] For example, with respect to the substrate, numerous
suitable materials are known in the art. Typical samplers include
paper substrates, and the sampler of the invention may so include a
paper substrate. The paper may be of a grade similar to that used
in conventional product samplers. However, while known samplers
typically require expensive grades of paper, the unique
construction of the product sampler of the present invention allows
for the use of any paper substrate to be employed in conjunction
with the invention. Thus, lower grades of paper may be employed in
conjunction with the invention. Moreover, in conjunction with the
preparation of conventional samplers, some higher grades of paper,
such as whiter or brighter paper than is conventionally used, are
not acceptable because such papers may be incompatible with
microencapsulated fragrances. In contrast, in conjunction with the
present invention, such higher grades of paper may be employed.
More generally, any web or sheet of material useful as a substrate
may be employed in conjunction with the invention. For example, the
substrate may be a polymeric film of material, such as a
polypropylene film or a polyester film. One suitable film is sold
by the duPont Corporation under the trademark MYLAR. If a polymeric
film is used as a substrate, the barrier properties of the film may
be adequate to protect the integrity of the sampler, and no
separate barrier material need be employed.
[0031] The sampler generally further includes a barrier material,
which material may be any material that prevents release of
desirable components from the product layer. For example, when the
product layer includes a microencapsulated fragrance dispensed in a
gelatinoid product vehicle, the barrier layer should be a material
that prevents migration of non-volatile components of the product
layer into and through the substrate. The barrier layer thus should
be a material which inhibits release of fragrance and other
volatile materials.
[0032] Of the numerous suitable materials known in the art,
preferred barrier materials include metal foils, polymeric films,
such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester and
polyvinylidinedichloride, and coextruded or laminar films, such as
a polyethylene/polyamide/polyethylen- e film. The product layer may
be applied onto the barrier layer by conventional methods, such as,
for example, spray coating, silk screening, extrusion, flexography,
letterpress application, and so forth. The invention is not limited
to the foregoing barrier materials or application methods, and it
is contemplated that other polymeric or metallic films or other
films or combinations could be employed in conjunction with the
invention.
[0033] Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, the sampler 10 is of laminar
construction and includes a substrate 11 having a layer of barrier
material 12 (shown in FIGS. 2-3) integrally bonded to at least a
portion thereof, and preferably bonded only to a portion thereof
when the sampler takes the form of a magazine insert. The sampler
may be made by applying the barrier film material in a continuous
strip over the substrate material to form a laminar intermediate
structure, as shown in FIG. 5. Alternatively, the barrier film
material may be applied discontinuously over the substrate to form
an intermediate structure, as shown in FIG. 7 with respect to
substrate 11" and barrier material 12".
[0034] The sampler further includes a product, and, as set forth in
more detail hereinbelow, most preferably includes a gelatinoid
product. In the preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 2-3, a
gelatinoid product layer 14 is placed on at least a portion of the
barrier layer, and one portion of the sampler is folded along fold
line 16 (shown in FIG. 2) to seal the product layer 14 between
folded portions of the barrier layer 12, as best shown in FIG. 3.
It is contemplated that plural product layers of different
fragrances or products arranged adjacent or proximate to one
another on the barrier layer. For example, the sampler may be used
to provide samples of two or more complementary fragrances, such as
"his and her" fragrances. The product layer or layers may be
applied to the barrier layer in any suitable manner, for example,
by employing conventional manufacturing methods.
[0035] An alternative construction for the sampler is shown in FIG.
4. In this embodiment, a separate covering laminar ribbon 17 that
is composed of barrier layer 18 and substrate material 19 are
applied over the product layer 14', barrier layer 12', and
substrate layer 11' to thereby seal the product layer 14' within
the sheets of barrier material 12', 18. The material of the barrier
layer 18 of the laminar ribbon 17 may be the same or different
material as in the barrier layer 12'; similarly, the substrate
layer 19; the ribbon 17 may be the same or different material as in
the substrate 11'. A second alternative embodiment of the invention
is shown in FIG. 7. In this embodiment, barrier layer 12" is
discontinuously applied to substrate 11". The product layer 14" is
initially applied in a different position on the barrier layer 12".
The exact position of the product layer 14" on the barrier layer is
not critical, so long as the product layer is disposed between
layers or sheets of barrier material in the finished sampler.
[0036] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the sampler may be bound within a
magazine along an edge, such as edge 20 or edge 21 (shown in FIG.
1) , or by means of a separate attached hanger (not shown) .
Heretofore, if the sampler were bound within a magazine and a trim
portion taken along a connecting edge, the removed trim portion
would comprise a laminate of the barrier material and the substrate
material. In contrast, in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention, the sampler has a non-barrier trimmable
substrate edge tab, or protruding tab portion 22. By "non-barrier"
is meant an edge portion that is not laminated to the barrier
material. As shown in FIG. 5, the laminate of the barrier material
with the substrate generally defines a barrier substrate region 23
and a non-barrier substrate region 25. To prepare the sampler, a
portion of the barrier substrate region is removed along an edge 26
of the sampler, as shown in FIG. 6, preferably by cutting. As shown
in FIG. 6, the cut line 28 should extend at least to the boundary
29 between the barrier substrate region 23 and the non-barrier
substrate region 25. The cut line 28 may be made before or after a
product layer has been applied, and before or after the product
layer is covered with a layer of barrier material. The remaining
portion of the edge 26 proximal to the removed portion of the
barrier substrate material will comprise the non-barrier trimmable
substrate edge tab portion 22, as shown in FIG. 1. If a trim is
taken along the tab portion, the removed trim portion will comprise
only the substrate material, and will not include any barrier
material.
[0037] Preferably, the edge tab portion is homogeneous, that is,
the edge tab portion is composed of a single substrate material.
Such homogeneous construction allows for ready recycle or disposal
of the trim portion. Thus, when binding the sampler into a magazine
along edge 20, the magazine binder may take a trim from the tab
portion 22 without removing barrier material with the removed trim
portion.
[0038] In the alternative construction shown in FIG. 7, the barrier
film 12" is not applied continuously over the substrate 11". In
this embodiment, the non-barrier portions of the substrate may
serve as a non-barrier trimmable edge portion. For example, a trim
may be taken from edge 27. So long as the trim line 30 does not
extend into the barrier film 12", the trim portion removed will be
homogeneous, and the sampler thus may be provided with a
non-barrier trimmable substrate edge portion.
[0039] As is conventional, the sampler may have printing across the
non-barrier substrate region 25 (shown in FIG. 5). In addition, the
barrier substrate region 23 may also be provided with printed
graphics, as is not practical with currently produced fragrance
samplers. Both the barrier substrate region 23 (shown in FIG. 5 on
the inside of the sampler) and the non-barrier side 31 (shown in
FIG. 1 on the outside of the sampler) thus may be provided with
printed graphics. Printing may be applied in any conventional or
otherwise suitable manner. The substrate and barrier layer may be
otherwise modified or decorated as appropriate. For example, when
the sampler edge is folded over the fold line 16 (as shown in FIG.
2), the non-barrier side 31 (shown in FIG. 1) of the substrate is
partially exposed. The sampler may be provided with a cut,
perforated, or scored pattern 33 to be folded over the product
layer, the pattern 33 defining a patterned tab 34, whereby a user
may pull away the tab 34 to expose the product layer 14.
[0040] In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the
sampler is in the form of a label, as illustrated by label 50 shown
in FIG. 8. The label 50 includes sheets of a polymeric or other
suitable barrier material 51, 52 having a gelatinoid product layer
54 disposed therebetween. The sheets 51, 52 may be of the same or
different materials, so long as each serves a barrier function. No
separate barrier or substrate layer thus is required, although a
separate substrate (not shown) may be employed if desired for
printability or other reasons. Resealable adhesive strips 55, 57
may be provided to seal the product layer 54 between the sheets 51,
52, although, when the product is provided in the form of a
non-volatile gelatinoid product layer, such sealing of the label
ordinarily is not required. The label of this embodiment of the
invention readily may be distributed and handled, and may be
resealed to allow for multiple uses.
[0041] Perimeter sealing ordinarily is not required of the samplers
of the invention, although a perimeter seal may be employed if
desired. Perimeter sealing may be employed where a longer shelf
life is required of a sampler containing volatizing agents which
may be added to increase the "lift" or strength of the fragrance.
For example, as shown in FIG. 9, with respect to a sampler in the
form of a label, the sampler 50' may include a gelatinoid product
layer 54' contained within a space bounded by first and second
sheets of barrier material 51', 52' and a wall defined by a thin
layer of a perimeter adhesive 56, the adhesive 56 securing the
first and second sheets of barrier material 51', 52' together and
providing a perimeter seal for the product.
[0042] Similarly, a perimeter adhesive may be used when the sampler
takes the form of a magazine insert. For example, FIG. 10
illustrates a sampler 60 that comprises a substrate 61, a layer of
barrier material 62, and product layers 63, 64. The sampler 60
further includes a thin "wall" of perimeter adhesive 65. To seal
the product layers within the sampler, the sampler is folded along
fold line 66, thus sealing the product layers in a space bounded by
the fold line 66, the wall of adhesive 65, and folded portions of
the sheet of barrier material. In any embodiment of the invention
wherein a perimeter adhesive is employed, any suitable adhesive may
be used, and the choice of a particular adhesive will be within the
level of skill in the art, in connection with the desired ultimate
function of the adhesive. For example, various adhesives may be
selected, the choice depending on whether the adhesive is to be
used as a vapor seal to prevent loss of volatizing agents, as a
physical barrier to prevent leakage, or as a tackifying agent to
provide reclosability. The adhesive may comprise a heat sealable
adhesive coating.
[0043] Conventional fragrance samplers employ adhesives to secure
the fragrance microcapsules to the paper substrate. In accordance
with preferred embodiments of the invention, the encapsulated
fragrance or other product is provided in a gelatinoid form, i.e.,
a gelled or gel-like form. In this embodiment, the fragrance or
other product contacts on a portion of the barrier material in a
non-adhesive manner. By "non-adhesive" is meant that the gelatinoid
product is in contact with the barrier layer or substrate in the
absence of an adhesive layer that secures the product layer to the
substrate or barrier layer.
[0044] The sampler of the invention may be used to deliver any
suitable product. Preferably, the product is a microencapsulated
product, and most preferably, the product is a microencapsulated
fragrance. Any conventional fragrance microcapsules may be employed
in conjunction with the invention, and many microencapsulation
methods are known in the art. Most preferably, the microcapsules
comprise a fragrant material contained within a space bounded by a
wall material, the wall material being made from a highly
cross-linked polymer, such as (but not restricted to) a polyester,
a urea-based polymer, polyurea, polyamide, and so forth.
Microcapsules having a gelatin-based wall material also may be
employed. Preferably, the water content of the microcapsule portion
is minimized prior to mixing with the vehicle, to thereby reduce
the possibility that the rheological and aesthetic properties of
the vehicle do not change upon evaporation of the water. The water
content may be so minimized by any means suitable and known in the
art, such as by filtering. The water content of the microcapsules
preferably is reduced to a level below about 40%, more preferably,
to a level below about 30%, and most preferably to a level in the
range of zero to about 20%.
[0045] When the sampler is used to deliver a microencapsulated
product or other product that is not itself gelatinoid in nature,
the product should be dispersed or otherwise provided in a carrier
vehicle, the product and vehicle thus defining the gelatinoid
product. The carrier vehicle may comprise any material that is
suitable for carrying the encapsulated product and forming a
gelatinoid product layer which will not compromise the
microcapsules, cause leakage of the microcapsule contents, nor
accelerate diffusion thereof. Preferably, the carrier vehicle is a
water-miscible material that is capable of being formulated to
yield a gelatinoid compound or composition; more preferably, the
carrier vehicle is a water-soluble material. Water solubility is
desired to facilitate ease of incorporation of the fragrance
microcapsules into the vehicle to form the product without the need
for surfactants, emulsifying agents, homogenizers, or other
ingredients to accommodate the water content of the
microencapsulates. The carrier material further is preferably
non-volatile, or is minimally volatile, to reduce the possibility
that the rheological and aesthetic properties of the vehicle will
change by evaporation of the carrier material. In accordance with
highly preferred embodiments of the invention, the carrier vehicle
is selected from among glycerin, propylene glycol, ethoxylated
polyol esters, polyethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol
monomethylether, and mixtures of the foregoing. The invention is
not restricted to the foregoing, and indeed any suitable carrier
vehicle may be chosen in connection with the invention.
[0046] The product carried in the sampler may comprise a mixture of
microcapsules and the carrier vehicle. Preferably, the
microcapsules are present in the carrier vehicle in an amount
ranging from about 5% to about 55% by dry weight; more preferably,
from about 15% to about 40% by dry weight; most preferably, from
about 20% to about 35%. The balance of the product may comprise the
carrier vehicle and any water present by virtue of the addition of
the microcapsules. The microcapsules may be provided in the form of
a non-flowing filter cake or otherwise as appropriate.
[0047] To assist in imparting a pleasant feel to the product, and
to prevent migration of the product, the product may include a
thickener. Any thickener that is effective in thickening the
carrier vehicle may be employed. Suitable thickeners preferably are
selected from among known thickeners, the exact choice depending in
part upon the carrier vehicle chosen. When the carrier vehicle is
glycerin, the thickener is preferably a polyacrylamide. Other
suitable thickeners include PEMULEN TR-1 or TR-2, an
acrylate/C10-30 alkyl acrylate cross polymer sold by BF Goodrich,
other acrylic/acrylate copolymers, polymeric thickeners, polymeric
emulsification, or other suitable thickeners. The thickener may be
employed in any amount effective to thicken the product layer.
Preferably, the thickener is present in the product layer
composition in an amount ranging from about 0.05% to about 5% by
weight; more preferably, from about 0.1% to about 2.0% by weight;
and most preferably 0.2% to 1.0% by weight.
[0048] Alternatively, the desired viscosity may be achieved by the
addition of a particulate filler, such as boron nitride or a
modified starch. When a starch is used, the starch preferably is a
hydrophobically modified starch selected from the DRY FLO starches
(National Starch). If such a starch is used, no additional
thickeners need be employed. Use of such fillers enhances product
aesthetics by providing a drier, smoother, and silkier feel on the
skin. The particulate nature of such fillers also helps to adsorb
and contain any unencapsulated fragrance oil and prolong the shelf
life of the sampler (particularly if a hydrophobic grade such as
DRY-FLO PC or AF is used). Depending on the desired tactile
properties the product layer may include an amount ranging from
about 5% to about 25% of such starch; most preferably, if such
starch is present, the product layer includes about 10% to about
18% starch.
[0049] The product layer should be sufficiently compatible with the
barrier material so that the product layer will wet the barrier
material. To assist in wetting, the product layer may include a
surfactant. Any suitable surfactant may be employed in conjunction
with the invention. Preferably, the surfactant is a non-ionic
surfactant, for example octylphenoxypolyethoxyethanol or
methyl/glucoside sesquistearate. The surfactant is an optional
ingredient in the product layer composition. When used, the
surfactant may be present in any amount effective to reduce the
surface tension of the product layer composition. Preferably, the
surfactant is present in the product in an amount ranging from
about 0.05% to about 2% by weight, and more preferably, an amount
ranging from about 0.1% to about 0.5% by weight.
[0050] Other ingredients may be added to the product as desired.
For example, the product may include a preservative, an
antimicrobial agent, an antioxidant, a volatizing agent, such as a
volatile silicone, a colorant, and, in general, any other
compatible material that imparts or enhances desirable properties.
Such ingredients may be added in any suitable amounts. The
microcapsule containing mixture need only be mixed conventionally
to achieve homogeneity.
[0051] The fragrance or other product need not be provided in
microencapsulated form, but may be provided in any other suitable
gelatinoid form. For example, the fragrance or other product may be
provided in the form of a non-microencapsulated emulsified product,
which comprises an emulsion of fragrance oil in a suitable vehicle.
The emulsified product should ideally be homogenized at a high
speed and shear rate to achieve a dispersion of 0.10 to 5.0 micron
oil droplets in the vehicle. A thickener may be added before or
after emulsification to thereby stabilize the emulsion. The
rheological and other properties of the emulsion then may be
adjusted. Surfactants optionally may be employed to aid in
stabilizing the emulsion, although surfactants are not generally
desirable since they may promote diffusion of the fragrance from
the sample layer. Such an emulsion of fragrance oil may have a
shorter shelf life than an encapsulated fragrance product, but the
emulsion will likely have the advantage of being less expensive
than products that include a microencapsulated fragrance. In
addition, the fragrance oil will likely impart a greater "lift" or
initial burst of fragrance. In some embodiments of the invention,
microcapsules may be used in conjunction with fragrance oils in the
same product layer to thereby combine the benefits of initial lift
and good shelf life. In other embodiments, the sampler may include
two fragrance strips, for example, one being a microencapsulated
fragrance and one being a non-encapsulated fragrance. For example,
in the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, product layer 63 may be a
non-encapsulated fragrance, and product layer 64 may be a
microencapsulated fragrance.
[0052] In another embodiment of the invention, the sampler includes
two fragrant products, one being a conventional microencapsulated
fragrance that is disposed in an adhesive suspension and that is
adhesively secured to the substrate or barrier layer, and the other
being a gelatinoid product. For example, in the embodiment shown in
FIG. 11, sampler 70 includes a conventional microencapsulated
fragrance strip 71, which may be adhesively connected either to the
substrate layer 72 or the barrier layer 73, but preferably to the
substrate layer 72. The sampler 70 further includes a gelatinoid
product layer 74, which preferably is a fragrant product and which
may be the same as or different from the product in the
microcapsule strip. The sample is folded over fold line 75 to form
a folded pocket that is adhesively secured by the microcapsule
strip 71. When the sampler is opened, the microcapsules in the
strip 71 will rupture to release the microencapsulated fragrance in
an initial "burst." The user then may sample the product in both
the microcapsule strip 71 and in the gelatinoid product 74. The
gelatinoid product 74 will allow for repeated use of the sampler
over a longer period of time than could be attained with the
microcapsule strip used alone. Various other combinations are
possible.
[0053] In accordance with another preferred embodiment of the
invention, the sampler includes fragrance oil provided in the form
of a particulate product matrix containing the fragrance oil. Any
compatible material may be employed to provide the particulate
matrix, and preferred materials include amorphous silicon dioxide,
such as AEROSIL (DeGussa), CABOSIL (Cabot), or modified corn starch
(such as DRY FLO products available from National Starch).
Preferably, the material used to provide the particulate matrix is
a hydrophobic material. Alternately, the particulate product matrix
is a polymeric material. One suitable material is POLYTRAP 6603
(Advanced Polymer Systems). The material of the matrix is provided
in a quantity effective to contain most or all of the fragrance oil
or other product. Generally, the particulate polymeric matrix acts
as a sponge to contain and keep the emulsified ingredient suspended
within the vehicle of the gelatinoid product layer. To provide a
gelatinoid product layer, the fragrance oil or other product is
mixed with the matrix, and this mixture is then emulsified or
dispersed in the gelatinoid carrier vehicle. Use of such a
particulate product matrix results in a stable pseudo-encapsulated
product layer, and further provides a larger droplet size, which,
in turn, allows for delivery of an increased "payload" of the oil
product, as compared to emulsified fragrance oils.
[0054] The sampler of the invention is not limited to use in
conjunction with fragrance products, but rather is useful in
conjunction with any gelatinoid product or product that may be
converted to a gelatinoid form for sampling. Thus, for example, the
sampler may be used to deliver other materials, such as lotions,
creams, and so forth. The sampler may also be used to deliver color
cosmetic products such as lipsticks, rouges, blushes, foundations,
and the like. The sampler may further be used to deliver
non-cosmetic products, such as inks, dyes, and so forth. For
example, in one embodiment of the invention, the sampler is a
disposable fingerprint kit. In this embodiment, the sampler will
deliver a gelatinoid fingerprint ink, which may include an
encapsulated dye, dispersed pigment, or other colorant. Thus, it
should be understood that the sampler of the invention may be used
not only for marketing purposes, but also more generally as a
delivery system for providing a variety of products for many
uses.
[0055] The following examples illustrate the invention, but should
not be construed as limiting in scope.
EXAMPLE 1
Fragrance Sampler
[0056] A sampler of laminar construction is made by applying a
layer of polypropylene barrier material over a #2 clay-coated
calendered sheet to form an intermediate laminate. Onto the barrier
material is applied a gelatinoid product that comprises the
following ingredients:
1 Glycerin 54.8% Fragrance microcapsules 29.7% Water 15.3% PEMULEN
TR-2 0.2%
[0057] The intermediate laminate is folded over itself to seal the
fragrance layer between the layers of polypropylene barrier
material. Alternatively, a second layer of laminate is ribboned
over the product layer.
EXAMPLE 2
Fragrance Sampler
[0058] A sampler is prepared in accordance with Example 1, except
that the fragrance layer comprises an emulsion of fragrance oil in
glycerin. The fragrance layer comprises the following
ingredients:
2 Fragrance oil 30.0% Glycerin 69.0% Polyacrylamide thickener
1.0%
EXAMPLE 3
[0059] A sampler is prepared in accordance with Example 1, except
that the fragrance layer comprises a particulate absorption matrix
having the following composition:
3 Fragrance oil 30.0% AEROSIL R972 10.0% Glycerin 59.7%
Polyacrylamide thickener 0.3%
EXAMPLE 4
[0060] A sampler is prepared in accordance with Example 1, except
that the fragrance layer comprises a particulate polymeric
absorption matrix having the following composition:
4 Fragrance oil 30.0% POLYTRAP 6603 6.0% Glycerin 63.5%
Polyacrylamide thickener 0.5%
EXAMPLE 5
[0061] A sampler is prepared in accordance with Example 1, except
that the fragrance oil contains a polymeric thickener and
particulate matrix in the following water-miscible composition:
5 Fragrance oil 30.0% ETHOCEL S10 (Dow Corning) 3.0% AEROSIL R972
8.0% Glycerin 58.5% Polyacrylamide thickener 0.5%
EXAMPLE 6
[0062] A sampler is prepared in accordance with Example 1, except
that the fragrance layer comprises the following water-miscible
composition:
6 Microcapsule Cake 60.0% Glycerin 39.5% Polyacrylamide thickener
0.5%
EXAMPLE 7
[0063] A sampler is prepared in accordance with Example 1, except
that the fragrance layer comprises the following water-miscible
composition:
7 Microcapsule "Cake" 55.0% Glycerin 20.0% Polyethylene Glycol
24.5% Polyacrylamide thickener 0.5%
[0064] With respect to polyethylene glycol, various molecular
weights and grades are available, and the choice of a particular
grade and use level will be within the level of skill in the art.
Such choice largely will be dictated by desired tactile properties
of the gelatinoid product layer, and/or by the method used to apply
the product to the barrier substrate during manufacture.
EXAMPLE 8
[0065] A sampler is prepared in accordance with Example 1, except
that the scent strip comprises the following water-immiscible
composition:
8 Microcapsules 35.0% DC 200 Fluid 10,000 cs. 65.0% (Dow
Corning)
EXAMPLE 9
[0066] A sampler is prepared in accordance with Example 1, except
that the scent strip comprises the following lower-viscosity
water-immiscible composition:
9 Microcapsules 35.0% DC 200 Fluid 1,000 cs. 15.0% DC 200 Fluid
10,000 cs. 50.0%
[0067] Examples 8 and 9 illustrate that the gelatinoid product
layer may comprise a water-immiscible vehicle. Such vehicles may be
more difficult to employ when the vehicle is used to carry a
microencapsulated fragrance oil, inasmuch as the oil may be soluble
in the vehicle and the microcapsules thus may become compromised.
However, a water-immiscible vehicle may provide superior tactile
properties, and thus may find use in connection with some
microencapsulated applications. Moreover, a water-immiscible
vehicle or solvent is preferred for some applications, such as
color cosmetics, wherein solubility and diffusion of a fragrance
oil are not at issue.
EXAMPLE 10
[0068] A sampler is prepared in accordance with Example 1, except
that the fragrance strip has the following composition:
10 AEROSIL 972 4.0% Fragrance Oil 12.5% Microcapsule "cake" 42.0%
Polyacrylamide thickener 0.5% Glycerin 41.0%
[0069] In this Example, the fragrance sampler includes both a
fragrance oil and microencapsulated fragrance. The sampler has a
good initial "lift," and has a satisfactory shelf life.
EXAMPLE 11
[0070] A sampler is prepared in accordance with Example 1, except
that the fragrance strip has the following composition:
11 Glycerin 41.0% Fragrance Microcapsules 38.0% Modified Corn
Starch 21.0%
[0071] In this Example, the starch imparts the fragrance strip with
a smooth and silky feel on the skin.
EXAMPLE 12
[0072] A sampler is prepared in accordance with Example 1, except
that two fragrance strips are employed. The first fragrance strip
comprises a conventional fragrance strip that is adhesively secured
to the substrate and that releases fragrance via rupture of
microcapsules upon opening of the sampler. The second fragrance
strip comprises the fragrance strip employed in conjunction with
Example 1. Like the sampler of Example 10, this fragrance strip has
a good initial "lift" and a satisfactory shelf life.
[0073] Thus, the foregoing general objects have been satisfied. The
sampler of the invention is simple in construction, and may be
quickly and inexpensively manufactured to allow for production of
handouts, mailers, labels, inserts, and the like in a
cost-effective manner not heretofore possible. In addition, the
sample has an excellent barrier property, such that volatile
components do not readily escape from the sampler. Moreover, the
sampler has many versatile applications, and may be used, for
example, to deliver products such as cosmetics and the like. In
preferred embodiments of the invention, the sampler is provided in
the form of a magazine insert having a non-barrier trimmable edge
portion, this allowing for ready binding into a magazine and
acceptability by magazine binders.
[0074] While particular embodiments of the invention have been
shown, it will of course be understood that the invention is not
limited thereto since modifications may be made by those skilled in
the art, particularly in light of the foregoing teachings. It is,
therefore, contemplated by the appended claims to cover any such
modifications as incorporate those features which constitute the
essential features of these improvements within the true spirit and
scope of the invention.
* * * * *